Scary/exciting changes:
Last month I wrote about this new summer energy and how I’m finally in a more expansive place. July has been an even more expansive month…and even if I dare say…busy?? I have alot more capacity, but it’s scary to feel like things are close to how things were before the pandemic. I’m trying to take time to slow down and reflect on this transition.
The truth is things aren’t the same as before the pandemic, because I’ve learned and changed so much in this past year. My body knows what it feels like to truly in tune with reality, and I’ve practiced pengulating between what feels challenging and what feels familiar/safe. This new season is just a swing in the other direction - from the contraction of the pandemic into the expansion of going back into the world. No matter what, I’ll always find home in myself and can always come back when things feel too much.
Art institute:
At the beginning of the month I visited the art institute with a friend. It was really weird to be back at the art institute for the first time since before the pandemic! It was cool to see the Obama portraits, but the highlight was the Bisa Butler exhibit. It was seriously incredible! If you’re in Chicago, you need to go see this exhibit ASAP. The exhibit will only be there until September!
More ways to have fun:
A few months ago, I was consistently writing to my inner child in my journal. Reminders about how I see her and give her reminders about her worth. The reason I was writer to my inner child every day was because I realized how I mostly paid attention to her when things were difficult. I wanted to build a habit where I gave her my presence and love regardless if things were challenging or easeful.
Recently, I’ve let go of that habit because things are shifting and are alot busier. So I was thinking about other ways I can incorporate my inner child into my life. Painting my nails fun colors and letting my inner child pick what they like has been a new way of joy. I’m learning how to pivot and be more curious of the many ways I can take care of myself and experience this life with joy.
books:
Yolk by H.k. Choi
And i’m still reading it! I’ve definitely haven’t had much a chance to read recently, but when I do have time, this is my go to.
Crying in h mart by Michelle Zauner
Finished this one! SO MANY TEARS. I honestly had to take so many breaks, because it was bringing up so many emotions for me. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
All about love by bell hooks
Put it on the shelf this month, but definitely picking it back up for August! L
Makers Marketplace at The Martin:
It has been a long time since I’ve done an art market, but I’ll in one on August 8! If you’re in Chicago, you should drop by The Martin (and get brunch at Split-Rail) and say hi to me! I will be there with some art a few tote bags (these two designs below will be available) from my etsy shop from 11:00-2:00pm. You can find more info and RSVP here if you’re planning on coming by.
Food:
A new Mexican restaurant very close to where I live, and I finally checked it out recently. I won’t name the restaurant, because it will pretty much give away my address - but I’m happy to have yummy tacos so close to me as well as a restaurant with outdoor seating. Can’t wait to take advantage of this place while it’s still beautiful out.
new old bike:
I still need to de rust my bike alittle bit more, but I got my old bike that I haven’t used in 2+ years fixed up. I’m really excited to be back to biking! I have a new part time gig that is just two miles south of me, and I get to ride along the river trail part of the way. It’s going take a bit for my body to get used to biking again, but I have a feeling it’s going to help with my mental health.
Mental health:
Talking about mental health, my somatic therapist has been really supportive as I’m maneuvering some challenging things in my family. This month has been an opportunity for me to continue to practice trusting my body. I’ve been experiencing alot of dissociation from things being too overwhelming events that are spaced too close together. It’s hard to integrate and process things when things feel like they are changing too rapidly. So my body/nervous system is coping by giving distance from the things at hand. And so I’m practicing being compassionate with my system and being understanding. This is part of the process. I’m not actively pushing down my emotions or running away from them. But my system is wise to give me what I’m ready for. I’ve talked so much about self compassion and embracing our process - what is happening is the continual practice and embodiment of what I believe is powerful and healing. And it’s not easy.
Art process:
Ever since I painted in the Create Together session, I haven’t touched my paints. It’s actually nice to reflect back on…I didn’t and don’t feel guilt for it. I used to feel bad when I didn’t paint or make “art” for awhile. Now, I see that what I do on a daily basis is part of my creative process. Every conversation. Every time I prioritize my rest and joy. Every time I give myself space to sit with what’s present. Every time I don’t force myself to do something that isn’t in alignment. It’s all art. It’s all part of my thriving journey.
I can feel new art pieces brewing in me. Next month I’ll show up what I come up with!
Create together:
In July, I led my first Create Together session, and it was such a sweet time. For those who aren’t familiar with Create Together - it is a monthly BIPOC online gathering where I carve out time for us all to create art together. You can do whatever medium and form of art you like, and after our time where we do our own art, there’s an optional space where folks can share their experience. I started it, because even as an artist I find it hard to show up for myself consistently. So I thought it would be supportive to set aside time to nourish ourselves together.
Excited to see it continue to unfold. If you’re interested in learning more about it and want to register, you can check it out on my website! The sliding scale is $5-25 made possible through my BIPOC Healing fund.
Art + Healing mentorship:
I have two more spots open this summer/fall for my mentorship offering. If you or you know of someone who might align with me and my work, I have openings for free consultations to see if we would be a good fit. I don’t think I’ll be leading any group workshops for the remainder of this year, and will be focusing on smaller offerings like this one.
my birthday:
I’m turning 32 on the 14th!! August is always such an invitation for me to reflect and feel so much deep gratitude. I would love to invite you to contribute my BIPOC Healing Fund! It keeps Create Together and the mentorships accessible for BIPOC and helps me sustain this work. The labor is so much more than the hours I use to prep and lead my spaces - it’s the practice of years of embodied wisdom, healing, and energetic boundary setting. I invite you to continue to support me so that my work can flow from a place of connection and sustenance.